.acis (.sat, .sab) File Extension

ACIS Solid Model

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What is a .acis (.sat, .sab) file?

The ACIS (.sat, .sab) file format is a geometric modeling kernel developed by Spatial Corporation (now part of Dassault Systèmes). It's a widely used format for representing 3D solid models in CAD (Computer-Aided Design), CAM (Computer-Aided Manufacturing), and CAE (Computer-Aided Engineering) applications. SAT (ACIS Text) files are ASCII-based and human-readable, allowing for easier inspection and debugging, while SAB (ACIS Binary) files are binary-based, resulting in smaller file sizes and faster read/write operations. ACIS files store precise geometric information, including curves, surfaces, and solid bodies, along with topological relationships between these entities. This allows for accurate representation of complex 3D shapes. The format supports a wide range of geometric primitives, such as lines, arcs, splines, surfaces, and solids. It's used for exchanging 3D model data between different CAD systems and for storing models for analysis and manufacturing purposes. The ACIS kernel is embedded in many commercial CAD packages, making .sat and .sab files a common interchange format.

.acis (.sat, .sab) File

ACIS Solid Model

Compatible Software Alternatives

Software Compatibility

Windows

  • AutoCAD
  • SolidWorks
  • CATIA
  • NX (Unigraphics)
  • Inventor
  • IronCAD
  • BricsCAD
  • FreeCAD
  • Spatial Analyzer
  • Ansys
  • COMSOL Multiphysics

macOS

  • AutoCAD for Mac
  • BricsCAD for Mac
  • FreeCAD
  • Spatial Analyzer
  • Onshape (web-based)

Linux

  • FreeCAD
  • BricsCAD for Linux
  • Spatial Analyzer
  • Onshape (web-based)

Mobile

  • Onshape (web-based)
  • eDrawings (limited support)

Alternative File Formats

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Frequently Asked Questions About .acis (.sat, .sab) Files

To open a .acis (.sat, .sab) file, you need compatible software. Here are some options:

  • AutoCAD
  • SolidWorks
  • AutoCAD for Mac
  • FreeCAD
  • Onshape (web-based)

Check the "Software Compatibility" section above for a complete list of programs that can open .acis (.sat, .sab) files on different operating systems.

To convert a .acis (.sat, .sab) file to another format, you can:

  1. Use compatible software: Many programs that open .acis (.sat, .sab) files also allow saving or exporting to different formats. For example, you might try using AutoCAD or AutoCAD for Mac.
  2. Try online conversion services: Websites like Zamzar, CloudConvert, or Online-Convert can transform files between formats without installing software.
  3. Convert to recommended alternatives: For .acis (.sat, .sab) files, consider converting to .step, .iges, .stl for better compatibility.
  4. Specialized conversion tools: Search for ".acis (.sat, .sab) converter" to find tools specifically designed for this file type.

Note: Converting files may result in some loss of formatting, quality, or functionality depending on the compatibility between formats.

If you're having trouble opening a .acis (.sat, .sab) file, try these troubleshooting steps:

  1. Verify the file extension is correct: Sometimes files may be incorrectly named. Make sure the file truly is a .acis (.sat, .sab) file.
  2. Update your software: Ensure you're using the latest version of your chosen program.
  3. Try alternative software: If one program doesn't work, try another from our compatibility list.
  4. Check for file corruption: The file might be damaged. Try to obtain a new copy if possible.
  5. Look for file converters: Converting to a more common format might help.

Like any file type, .acis (.sat, .sab) files can be safe or potentially risky depending on their source:

  • From trusted sources: Files from reputable websites, colleagues, or friends are generally safe.
  • From unknown sources: Exercise caution with files from unfamiliar websites or emails.

Safety recommendations:

  • Always scan files with antivirus software before opening them
  • Keep your operating system and applications updated
  • Be particularly cautious with executable file types

Common issues with .acis (.sat, .sab) files include:

  • Compatibility problems: Older or newer versions of software may not fully support certain .acis (.sat, .sab) files
  • Missing elements: Fonts, media, or other components may not transfer correctly between systems
  • File corruption: Incomplete downloads or transfer errors can damage files
  • Format variations: Different software may implement the .acis (.sat, .sab) format in slightly different ways

If you're experiencing issues with a specific .acis (.sat, .sab) file, you might need to:

  • Try opening it with alternative software
  • Ask the file creator to save it in a different format
  • Look for specific patches or updates for your software

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